Skills for Life: Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026

This week marks National Apprenticeship Week, a time to celebrate the diverse paths people take to build rewarding careers. This year’s theme, “Skills for Life,” resonates deeply with us at Rowans Hospice. It highlights that learning isn’t just a phase at the start of a career, it is a lifelong journey that strengthens our team and the care we provide.

One of our six core values is our commitment to Evolve. We understand that for our charity to thrive and meet the challenges of the future, every part of our organisation must grow and adapt. Apprenticeships are a vital part of this evolution; they allow staff across all departments, from clinical care to professional services, to gain formal qualifications and fresh perspectives while continuing their essential work.

We are incredibly proud of our Apprentices Karla, Kayleigh, Lisa and Ruby, and the dedication they bring to their roles every day.  They remind us that no matter what stage of your career you’re in, there is always room to grow and learn. Here’s what they have to say about their journeys so far:

Karla –
Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship:

I have been a Health Care Support Worker for nearly 19 years. The last 3 years I have been working at Rowans Hospice, and I feel very fortunate that I have found a career I absolutely adore and feel very lucky to be a part of a wonderful team.

I have always wanted to become a nurse, but the timing was never right until It all fell into place when I was offered the opportunity with the Hospice. I have built a strong foundation of knowledge in palliative care but this Apprenticeship will broaden and expand my knowledge more and help me develop an excellent set of skills to become a nurse.

What I have learnt is that nursing needs of patients are constantly changing and I am willing to learn and grow and everyday we develop better knowledge. I am inspired everyday by that hard-working nursing team for their passion to deliver outstanding care and to stand side by side is a privilege.

If anyone was thinking of doing and Apprenticeship, I would say grab the opportunity with both hands and take that leap and believe in yourself because you can do it!

Kayleigh –
Hospice UK Data Academy – Data Driven Professional Level 3:

A typical day for me would be logging onto my Apprenticeship portal, doing some online learning and then applying my learning to my day-to-day role e.g. creating interactive dashboards.

The Apprenticeship has helped me grow both professionally and personally by building my confidence and skills.  I’d describe my experience as ‘rewarding’ as it allows me to learn while putting things in place that will help the Hospice and make a difference. 

I’m really grateful to Rowans Hospice for allowing me the time in my current role to complete my Apprenticeship.

Lisa –
CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management:

I joined the Rowans Hospice as an HR Officer in May 2022 after 29 years with the John Lewis Partnership, and I genuinely love working here with such an amazing team across the whole organisation.

With the support of my managers and my desire to progress, I was accepted onto a Level 5 Apprenticeship with Corndel to complete my CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management, which I began in October 2025. The programme is challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I can already feel how it’s strengthening my knowledge and people practice skills.

I’m excited to continue this journey and grateful for the support from my team, Corndel, and my wonderful cohort — their encouragement truly makes a difference.

Ruby –
Marketing Apprentice:

Since being given the opportunity to take on an Apprenticeship at Rowans Hospice, I have extended my knowledge and learnt a variety of new skill sets applicable to my role.

In the past 9 months I have been lucky enough to get involved in so many different aspects of Marketing, from creating events, digital campaigns, blogs and social media content, conducting interviews, and so much more, I and am so grateful for the wonderful team I get to work with. I have gained much more confidence in Marketing both professionally and personally and am very proud to put my skills to such a wonderful cause.

If you are interested in starting your own Apprenticeship journey with Rowans Hospice, contact our HR team on 023 9225 0001 or email  HR@rowanshospice.co.uk